You do not need a visa

You do not need a visa to come to Ireland. However, you will need immigration permission to stay here as a paid intern. You cannot apply to be an unpaid intern.

Your exact preparations depend on your plans and personal circumstances. Some of the most important are described below. Read this information carefully to make sure you have everything you need.

You are from a non-visa required country and you wish to become an intern in Ireland for less than 3 months. Change your answers

 

Before you travel

Apply for immigration permission to be a paid intern

You must apply for and receive immigration permission to be a paid intern in Ireland before you travel.

You cannot apply to be an unpaid intern.

When you travel

Prepare for border control

You will need to prove that you have a valid reason for entering Ireland to an immigration officer at border control.

To do so you will need your passport, original internship permission letter (if applicable) and other documents.

If you cannot satisfy the immigration officer, you will not be allowed into Ireland.

Exceptions & special circumstances

Work for 14 days or less

If your paid internship starts and ends within a single 14 day period, you do not need to apply for immigration permission before you travel.

However, you must request temporary permission to be a paid intern when you arrive at border control. Make sure you bring appropriate documents with you when you travel, eg original contract.

During your stay

Travel to Northern Ireland & United Kingdom

If you intend to travel to Northern Ireland, check with the United Kingdom authorities if you need a visa.

Leaving & returning to Ireland

If you plan to leave and come back to Ireland during your stay, you will have prove to an immigration officer that you have a valid reason to re-enter Ireland every time you return.

Make sure you have any necessary documents with you for your return journey, before you travel.

Application conditions

Internships

You must be a third-level student to become an intern in Ireland. In addition, your internship must be:

  • Related to your course of study
  • Integral or necessary for your course
  • Approved by your third level institution, eg university authorities

To apply for permission, you must have an official offer of internship or an employment contract.

Costs & time

Apply for permission at least 1 month before you travel:

Help & information

Atypical Working Scheme

Atypical Working Scheme Division
Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service
Department of Justice and Equality
13-14 Burgh Quay
Dublin 2
Ireland
D02 XK70

Email: atypicalworkingscheme@justice.ie

 

Contact

If you have questions, contact us.

Updated: 20 January 2017

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